Robbinhood ransomware virus – removal and decryption options
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of malware is RobbinHood?
Ransomware-type programs are computer infections that cyber criminals use to prevent people from accessing their files and to blackmail them by making ransom demands. RobbinHood was discovered by Michael Gillespie and is an example of one of these programs.
It encrypts data stored on the system, rendering files unusable. To regain access to their files, people are encouraged to purchase a specific decryption tool. RobbinHood renames each encrypted file with the following format: "Encrypted_random.enc_robbinhood" (the word "random" is replaced with a string of random numbers and characters).
For example, "1.jpg" might be renamed to a filename such as "Encrypted_1y5u5msd65321fd2.enc_robbinhood", and so on. This program creates an HTML file ("_Decryption_ReadMe.html") containing a ransom message, which provides instructions about how to make payment and receive a decryption tool.
Appearance of the message encouraging users to pay a ransom to decrypt their compromised data (GIF):
Robbinhood ransomware overview
As mentioned, the "_Decryption_ReadMe.html" HTML file contains instructions about how to contact cyber criminals, make payment, and so on. It states that RobbinHood encrypted files with the RSA-4096 cryptography algorithm. To acquire a decryption tool (key), ransomware victims must pay 0.8 or 13 Bitcoins using a Bitcoin wallet address presented in the HTML file.
The cost depends on the number of infected systems. It goes on to state that the cost is increased by $10,000 for each day following the fourth day since encryption. Therefore, people are encouraged to make payment in no less than four days after encryption.
There are three email addresses provided to make contact with the cyber criminals who developed RobbinHood. There is also an alternative method using a contact form that can be accessed through a Tor browser.
People who have their data encrypted by RobbinHood are offered free decryption of three files (no larger than 10 MB in total) as 'proof' that these cyber criminals have a decryption tool/key, however, they promise to send it only when their ransom demands are met.
Unfortunately, no cyber criminals (ransomware developers) can be trusted. In many cases, people are scammed: they pay for decryption tools/keys and receive nothing in return. Therefore, cyber criminals often start to ignore victims once their demands are met.
In most cases, only the ransomware developers have decryption tools/keys. Ransomware-type programs encrypt data with cryptography algorithms that make decryption without the involvement of cyber criminals impossible. The only way to restore files without paying is to use a data backup that was created before encryption.
Ransomware in general
There are many ransomware-type programs online (such as CMG, L1LL, and Prus). Most encrypt data and encourage victims to pay ransoms. Essential differences between these programs are usually cost of decryption and cryptography algorithm used to encrypt data.
Decryption without contacting cyber criminals is usually impossible, unless the program contains bugs/flaws or is not fully developed.
Therefore, we recommend that you generate regular data backups and store them on remote servers or storage devices that are not connected to your system (otherwise, ransomware-type programs are capable of encrypting backups together with other data stored on the computer).
How did ransomware infect my computer?
It is unknown exactly how RobbinHood developers distribute/proliferate this infection, however, most cyber criminals use similar methods. A common method is to send emails that contain malicious attachments. Typically, attached files are Microsoft Office documents, PDFs, JavaScript files, archives such as ZIP, RAR and .exe files (executables).
The main purpose of these spam email campaigns is to trick people into opening the attached file, which then downloads and installs ransomware or another high-risk computer infection.
Another way to proliferate malicious files and cause computer infections is through dubious software download sources such as Peer-to-Peer networks (eMule, torrent clients, and so on), free file hosting, freeware download and unofficial websites, third party downloaders, and other sources of this type.
Cyber criminals present their infected files as legitimate, however, once they are downloaded and opened/installed, they cause computer infections such as ransomware. If a Trojan programs is installed, this might be the reason for computer infection with ransomware-type programs.
When installed, trojans proliferate other viruses. Various unofficial/fake software updaters can be used to proliferate ransomware. They cause computer infections by downloading and installing malicious programs rather than updates or fixes, or they exploit bugs/flaws of outdated software on the system.
Various software 'cracking' tools operate in a similar manner: rather than activating operating systems or programs free of charge, they download and install viruses.
| Name | Robbinhood virus |
| Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker |
| Encrypted Files Extension | "Encrypted_random.enc_robbinhood" filename (the word "random" is replaced with a string of random numbers and characters) |
| Ransom Demanding Message | _Decryption_ReadMe.html file |
| Ransom Amount | 0.8 - 13 Bitcoins (the price increases by $10,000 every day). |
| Detection Names | Avast (Win32:Trojan-gen), BitDefender (Trojan.GenericKD.31919436), ESET-NOD32 (Win32/Filecoder.RobbinHood.A), Kaspersky (Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Robin.a), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal) |
| Symptoms | Can't open files stored on your computer, previously functional files now have a different extension, for example my.docx.locked. A ransom demanding message is displayed on your desktop. Cyber criminals are asking to pay a ransom (usually in bitcoins) to unlock your files. |
| Distribution methods | Infected email attachments (macros), torrent websites, malicious ads. |
| Damage | All files are encrypted and cannot be opened without paying a ransom. Additional password stealing trojans and malware infections can be installed together with a ransomware infection. |
| Malware Removal (Windows) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
How to protect yourself from ransomware infections?
To avoid computer infection with ransomware-type and other high-risk infections, take the following precautions. If a received email contains an attachment and is sent from an unknown, untrustworthy, or suspicious email address, do not open the attachment or website link without making sure it is safe to do so.
These emails are often irrelevant, although they are presented as important and official. Keep installed programs updated, however, use only implemented functions or tools provided by official developers. Do not download software from untrustworthy/unofficial websites, using third party downloaders, or the other dubious sources mentioned above.
Use official, reputable websites and direct links. Do not activate installed software using third party tools ('cracks'), since this is a cyber crime.
Furthermore, these tools cause computer infections. Keep your computer safe by having reputable anti-spyware or anti-virus software installed. If your computer is already infected with RobbinHood, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.
Screenshots of "_Decryption_ReadMe.html" HTML file:
Text presented in RobbinHood ransomware HTML file:
What happened to your files?
All your files are encrypted with RSA-4096, Read more on https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RSA_(cryptosystem)
RSA is an algorithm used by modern computers to encrypt and decrypt the data. RSA is an asymmetric cryptographic algorithm. Asymmetric means that there are two different keys. This is also called public key cryptography, because one of the keys can be given to anyone:
1 - We encrypted your files with our "Public key"
2 - You can decrypt, the encrypted files with specific "Private key" and your private key is in our hands ( It's not possible to recover your files without our private key )
Is it possible to get back your data?
Yes, We have a decrypter with all your private keys. We have two options to get all your data back.
Follow the instructions to get all your data back:
OPTION 1
Step 1 : You must send us 0.8 Bitcoin(s) for each affected system
Step 2 : Inform us in panel with hostname(s) of the system you want, wait for confirmation and get your decrypter
OPTION 2
Step 1 : You must send us 13 Bitcoin(s) for all affected system
Step 2 : Inform us in panel, wait for confirmation and get all your decrypters
Our Bitcoin address is: 132wg6kkJJ4MpNKnuhVoptYPmYHf6C5xHE
BE CAREFUL, THE COST OF YOUR PAYMENT INCREASES $10,000 EACH DAY AFTER THE FOURTH DAY
Access to the panel ( Contact us )
The panel address: http://xbt4titax4pzza6w.onion/EvcNuvq4gckb/
Alternative addresses
hxxps://xbt4titax4pzza6w.onion.pet/EvcNuvq4gckb/
hxxps://xbt4titax4pzza6w.onion.to/EvcNuvq4gckb/
Access to the panel using Tor Browser
If non of our links are accessible you can try tor browser to get in touch with us:
Step 1: Download Tor Browser from here: https://www.torproject.org/download/download.html.en
Step 2: Run Tor Browser and wait to connect
Step 3: Visit our website at: panel address
If you're having a problem with using Tor Browser, Ask Google: how to use tor browser
Wants to make sure we have your decrypter?
To make sure we have your decrypter you can upload at most 3 files (maximum size allowance is 10 MB in total) and get your data back as a demo.
Where to buy Bitcoin?
The easiest way is LocalBitcoins, but you can find more websites to buy bitcoin using Google Search: buy bitcoin online
Screenshot of files encrypted by RobbinHood ("Encrypted_random.enc_robbinhood" extension):
Update February 6, 2020 - Crooks have recently released an updated version of RobbinHood ransomware, which appends a slightly different extension (".enc_robbin_hood") and drops different ransom notes (four copies, named "_Readme_Decrypt__Files.html", "_Readme_Help_Important.html", "_Readme_Help_Help_Help.html" and "_Readme_Recovery_ReadMe.html").
Screenshot of the updated Robinhood ransomware's note:
Text presented within this file:
How to recovery your files
Your network targeted by RobbinHood ransomware.
We've been watching you for days and we've worked on your systems to gain full access to your company and bypass all of your protections.
You must pay us in 4 days, if you don't pay in the speficied duration, the price increases $10,000 each day after the period. After 10 days your keys and your panel will be removed automatically and you won't be able to get your data back. We're watching you, if you want to know who we are, just ask google, don't upload your files to virustotal or services like that, don't call FBI or other security organizations. For security reasons don't shutdown your systems, don't recover your computer, don't rename your files, it will damage your files. All procedures are automated so don't ask for more times or somthings like that we won't talk more, all we know is MONEY. If you don't care about yourself we won't too. So do not waste your time and hurry up! Tik Tak, Tik Tak, Tik Tak!
What happened to your files?
All of your files locked and protected by a strong encryption with RSA-4096 ciphers.
More information about the RSA can be found here:
hxxps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RSA_(cryptosystem)In summery you can't read or work with your files, But with our help you can recover them.
It's impossible to recover your files without private key and our unlocking software ( You can google: Baltimore city, Greenville city and RobbinHood ransomware )Just pay the ransomware and end the suffering then get better cybersecurity
How to get private key or unlocking software?
The only way is to contact us: Click here
How much you must pay ?
The only way is to contact us: Click here
How To Access To Our Website?
For accessing to our website you must install Tor browser:
1 - Open your internet browser (If you don't know run internet explorer or firefox or chrome)
2 - Go to this address: hxxps://www.torproject.org/download/download.html.en
3 - Click on the windows logo and Download Tor Browser
4 - Follow the instruction and install it
5 - Run Tor-Browser with clicking on connect
6 - After initializing a normal internet browser will be opened (similar internet explorer window)
7 - Enter our web site address: -
8 - Now you are in our website and we are accessible there!If you have any problem yet to accessing our web site, Ask Google: " how to use tor browser "
Appearance of this file (GIF):
Screenshot of files encrypted by the updated RobbinHood ransomware (".enc_robbin_hood" ransom note):
Update 19 February, 2020 - Cyber criminals have recently started spreading RobbinHood ransomware in a very unusual way. They're using a driver vulnerability (to be more specific, Gygabyte driver) in order to infiltrate the system and remove/disable the existing anti-virus software so that there wouldn't be any interferences while injecting the actual malware.
More information regarding this malware campaign can be found in our news article.
Update April 20, 2020 - Crooks have released yet another variant of Robbinhood ransomware which appends ".rbhd" extension (e.g., "1.jpg" would be renamed to "1.jpg.rbhd" and so on so forth).
RobbinHood ransomware removal:
Instant automatic malware removal:
Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner
By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.
Video suggesting what steps should be taken in case of a ransomware infection:
Quick menu:
- What is Robbinhood virus?
- STEP 1. Reporting ransomware to authorities.
- STEP 2. Isolating the infected device.
- STEP 3. Identifying the ransomware infection.
- STEP 4. Searching for ransomware decryption tools.
- STEP 5. Restoring files with data recovery tools.
- STEP 6. Creating data backups.
If you are a victim of a ransomware attack we recommend reporting this incident to authorities. By providing information to law enforcement agencies you will help track cybercrime and potentially assist in the prosecution of the attackers. Here's a list of authorities where you should report a ransomware attack. For the complete list of local cybersecurity centers and information on why you should report ransomware attacks, read this article.
List of local authorities where ransomware attacks should be reported (choose one depending on your residence address):
USA - Internet Crime Complaint Centre IC3
United Kingdom - Action Fraud
Spain - Policía Nacional
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Germany - Polizei
Italy - Polizia di Stato
The Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Isolating the infected device:
Some ransomware-type infections are designed to encrypt files within external storage devices, infect them, and even spread throughout the entire local network. For this reason, it is very important to isolate the infected device (computer) as soon as possible.
Step 1: Disconnect from the internet.
The easiest way to disconnect a computer from the internet is to unplug the Ethernet cable from the motherboard, however, some devices are connected via a wireless network and for some users (especially those who are not particularly tech-savvy), disconnecting cables may seem troublesome. Therefore, you can also disconnect the system manually via Control Panel:
Navigate to the "Control Panel", click the search bar in the upper-right corner of the screen, enter "Network and Sharing Center" and select search result: 
Click the "Change adapter settings" option in the upper-left corner of the window: 
Right-click on each connection point and select "Disable". Once disabled, the system will no longer be connected to the internet. To re-enable the connection points, simply right-click again and select "Enable". 
Step 2: Unplug all storage devices.
As mentioned above, ransomware might encrypt data and infiltrate all storage devices that are connected to the computer. For this reason, all external storage devices (flash drives, portable hard drives, etc.) should be disconnected immediately, however, we strongly advise you to eject each device before disconnecting to prevent data corruption:
Navigate to "My Computer", right-click on each connected device, and select "Eject": 
Step 3: Log-out of cloud storage accounts.
Some ransomware-type might be able to hijack software that handles data stored within "the Cloud". Therefore, the data could be corrupted/encrypted. For this reason, you should log-out of all cloud storage accounts within browsers and other related software. You should also consider temporarily uninstalling the cloud-management software until the infection is completely removed.
Identify the ransomware infection:
To properly handle an infection, one must first identify it. Some ransomware infections use ransom-demand messages as an introduction (see the WALDO ransomware text file below).
This, however, is rare. In most cases, ransomware infections deliver more direct messages simply stating that data is encrypted and that victims must pay some sort of ransom. Note that ransomware-type infections typically generate messages with different file names (for example, "_readme.txt", "READ-ME.txt", "DECRYPTION_INSTRUCTIONS.txt", "DECRYPT_FILES.html", etc.). Therefore, using the name of a ransom message may seem like a good way to identify the infection. The problem is that most of these names are generic and some infections use the same names, even though the delivered messages are different and the infections themselves are unrelated. Therefore, using the message filename alone can be ineffective and even lead to permanent data loss (for example, by attempting to decrypt data using tools designed for different ransomware infections, users are likely to end up permanently damaging files and decryption will no longer be possible even with the correct tool).
Another way to identify a ransomware infection is to check the file extension, which is appended to each encrypted file. Ransomware infections are often named by the extensions they append (see files encrypted by Qewe ransomware below).
This method is only effective, however, when the appended extension is unique - many ransomware infections append a generic extension (for example, ".encrypted", ".enc", ".crypted", ".locked", etc.). In these cases, identifying ransomware by its appended extension becomes impossible.
One of the easiest and quickest ways to identify a ransomware infection is to use the ID Ransomware website. This service supports most existing ransomware infections. Victims simply upload a ransom message and/or one encrypted file (we advise you to upload both if possible).
The ransomware will be identified within seconds and you will be provided with various details, such as the name of the malware family to which the infection belongs, whether it is decryptable, and so on.
Example 1 (Qewe [Stop/Djvu] ransomware):
Example 2 (.iso [Phobos] ransomware):
If your data happens to be encrypted by ransomware that is not supported by ID Ransomware, you can always try searching the internet by using certain keywords (for example, a ransom message title, file extension, provided contact emails, crypto wallet addresses, etc.).
Search for ransomware decryption tools:
Encryption algorithms used by most ransomware-type infections are extremely sophisticated and, if the encryption is performed properly, only the developer is capable of restoring data. This is because decryption requires a specific key, which is generated during the encryption. Restoring data without the key is impossible. In most cases, cybercriminals store keys on a remote server, rather than using the infected machine as a host. Dharma (CrySis), Phobos, and other families of high-end ransomware infections are virtually flawless, and thus restoring data encrypted without the developers' involvement is simply impossible. Despite this, there are dozens of ransomware-type infections that are poorly developed and contain a number of flaws (for example, the use of identical encryption/decryption keys for each victim, keys stored locally, etc.). Therefore, always check for available decryption tools for any ransomware that infiltrates your computer.
Finding the correct decryption tool on the internet can be very frustrating. For this reason, we recommend that you use the No More Ransom Project and this is where identifying the ransomware infection is useful. The No More Ransom Project website contains a "Decryption Tools" section with a search bar. Enter the name of the identified ransomware, and all available decryptors (if there are any) will be listed.
Restore files with data recovery tools:
Depending on the situation (quality of ransomware infection, type of encryption algorithm used, etc.), restoring data with certain third-party tools might be possible. Therefore, we advise you to use the Recuva tool developed by CCleaner. This tool supports over a thousand data types (graphics, video, audio, documents, etc.) and it is very intuitive (little knowledge is necessary to recover data). In addition, the recovery feature is completely free.
Step 1: Perform a scan.
Run the Recuva application and follow the wizard. You will be prompted with several windows allowing you to choose what file types to look for, which locations should be scanned, etc. All you need to do is select the options you're looking for and start the scan. We advise you to enable the "Deep Scan" before starting, otherwise, the application's scanning capabilities will be restricted.
Wait for Recuva to complete the scan. The scanning duration depends on the volume of files (both in quantity and size) that you are scanning (for example, several hundred gigabytes could take over an hour to scan). Therefore, be patient during the scanning process. We also advise against modifying or deleting existing files, since this might interfere with the scan. If you add additional data (for example, downloading files/content) while scanning, this will prolong the process:
Step 2: Recover data.
Once the process is complete, select the folders/files you wish to restore and simply click "Recover". Note that some free space on your storage drive is necessary to restore data:
Create data backups:
Proper file management and creating backups is essential for data security. Therefore, always be very careful and think ahead.
Partition management: We recommend that you store your data in multiple partitions and avoid storing important files within the partition that contains the entire operating system. If you fall into a situation whereby you cannot boot the system and are forced to format the disk on which the operating system is installed (in most cases, this is where malware infections hide), you will lose all data stored within that drive. This is the advantage of having multiple partitions: if you have the entire storage device assigned to a single partition, you will be forced to delete everything, however, creating multiple partitions and allocating the data properly allows you to prevent such problems. You can easily format a single partition without affecting the others - therefore, one will be cleaned and the others will remain untouched, and your data will be saved. Managing partitions is quite simple and you can find all the necessary information on Microsoft's documentation web page.
Data backups: One of the most reliable backup methods is to use an external storage device and keep it unplugged. Copy your data to an external hard drive, flash (thumb) drive, SSD, HDD, or any other storage device, unplug it and store it in a dry place away from the sun and extreme temperatures. This method is, however, quite inefficient, since data backups and updates need to be made regularly. You can also use a cloud service or remote server. Here, an internet connection is required and there is always the chance of a security breach, although it's a really rare occasion.
We recommend using Microsoft OneDrive for backing up your files. OneDrive lets you store your personal files and data in the cloud, sync files across computers and mobile devices, allowing you to access and edit your files from all of your Windows devices. OneDrive lets you save, share and preview files, access download history, move, delete, and rename files, as well as create new folders, and much more.
You can back up your most important folders and files on your PC (your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders). Some of OneDrive’s more notable features include file versioning, which keeps older versions of files for up to 30 days. OneDrive features a recycling bin in which all of your deleted files are stored for a limited time. Deleted files are not counted as part of the user’s allocation.
The service is built using HTML5 technologies and allows you to upload files up to 300 MB via drag and drop into the web browser or up to 10 GB via the OneDrive desktop application. With OneDrive, you can download entire folders as a single ZIP file with up to 10,000 files, although it can’t exceed 15 GB per single download.
OneDrive comes with 5 GB of free storage out of the box, with an additional 100 GB, 1 TB, and 6 TB storage options available for a subscription-based fee. You can get one of these storage plans by either purchasing additional storage separately or with Office 365 subscription.
Creating a data backup:
The backup process is the same for all file types and folders. Here’s how you can back up your files using Microsoft OneDrive
Step 1: Choose the files/folders you want to backup.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon to open the OneDrive menu. While in this menu, you can customize your file backup settings.
Click Help & Settings and then select Settings from the drop-down menu.
Go to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.
In this menu, you can choose to backup the Desktop and all of the files on it, and Documents and Pictures folders, again, with all of the files in them. Click Start backup.
Now, when you add a file or folder in the Desktop and Documents and Pictures folders, they will be automatically backed up on OneDrive.
To add folders and files, not in the locations shown above, you have to add them manually.
Open File Explorer and navigate to the location of the folder/file you want to backup. Select the item, right-click it, and click Copy.
Then, navigate to OneDrive, right-click anywhere in the window and click Paste. Alternatively, you can just drag and drop a file into OneDrive. OneDrive will automatically create a backup of the folder/file.
All of the files added to the OneDrive folder are backed up in the cloud automatically. The green circle with the checkmark in it indicates that the file is available both locally and on OneDrive and that the file version is the same on both. The blue cloud icon indicates that the file has not been synced and is available only on OneDrive. The sync icon indicates that the file is currently syncing.
To access files only located on OneDrive online, go to the Help & Settings drop-down menu and select View online.
Step 2: Restore corrupted files.
OneDrive makes sure that the files stay in sync, so the version of the file on the computer is the same version on the cloud. However, if ransomware has encrypted your files, you can take advantage of OneDrive’s Version history feature that will allow you to restore the file versions prior to encryption.
Microsoft 365 has a ransomware detection feature that notifies you when your OneDrive files have been attacked and guide you through the process of restoring your files. It must be noted, however, that if you don’t have a paid Microsoft 365 subscription, you only get one detection and file recovery for free.
If your OneDrive files get deleted, corrupted, or infected by malware, you can restore your entire OneDrive to a previous state. Here’s how you can restore your entire OneDrive:
1. If you're signed in with a personal account, click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Options and select Restore your OneDrive.
If you're signed in with a work or school account, click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Restore your OneDrive.
2. On the Restore your OneDrive page, select a date from the drop-down list. Note that if you're restoring your files after automatic ransomware detection, a restore date will be selected for you.
3. After configuring all of the file restoration options, click Restore to undo all the activities you selected.
The best way to avoid damage from ransomware infections is to maintain regular up-to-date backups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How was my computer hacked and how did hackers encrypt my files?
Ransomware executables are usually disguised as regular content – hence, victims themselves often open these files. This malware is mainly distributed via trojans, drive-by downloads, untrustworthy download sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), spam emails/messages, online scams, malvertising, illegal program activation tools ("cracks"), and fake updates.
How to open files encrypted by Robbinhood ransomware?
Decryption is necessary for continued file usage. In other words, encrypted files cannot be opened/used unless they are decrypted.
Where should I look for free decryption tools for Robbinhood ransomware?
In case of a ransomware attack, we recommend looking up the No More Ransom project website (more information above).
I can pay you a lot of money, can you decrypt files for me?
We do not provide decryption services. It must be mentioned that aside from cases involving severely flawed ransomware, recovering encrypted files is usually impossible without the attackers' interference. Therefore, third-parties offering paid decryption are likely scams or middleman services between victims and criminals.
Will Combo Cleaner help me remove Robbinhood ransomware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate detected ransomware infections. It must be stressed that while using anti-virus software is the first step in ransomware recovery – security programs are incapable of decrypting files.
Outstanding!
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